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Art

Create

Discover your artistic side

The College of Idaho art department fosters creativity and critical thinking through an understanding of the practice and history of the visual arts. C of I art students develop visual literacy and problem-solving skills, learn to confidently explore the many avenues of technical and creative expression, and develop an appreciation for craftsmanship. Through their experiences in the classroom and studio, our students are encouraged to see how their own creative endeavors relate to the world in which they live.

Why study art at The College of Idaho?

The foundation of the art major is based in design and drawing. Students may build on these skills by taking intermediate and advanced level courses in ceramics, sculpture, painting, drawing, printmaking, graphic design and history of art. Advanced studio projects allow students to pursue in-depth study of a chosen medium, with a focus on developing a more mature, personal style of art making.

Courses in graphic design develop creative ability and technical understanding in areas such as web and print design, and digital photography. Advanced graphic design studio courses allow students to further develop their skills working on professional projects in conjunction with the Office of Marketing and Communications.

Classroom studios in the Langroise Center for the Fine and Performing Arts are well- equipped for working in traditional artistic media; graphic design is taught in the Covell Hall computer lab. Students in all these classes regularly display their work on campus in the Langroise Center, The capstone of a C of I art major’s experience is either the production of a sustained and coherent body of work for the annual senior exhibition, held in the College’s Rosenthal Gallery of Art, or an internship with organizations such as an art museum or a graphic design firm.

Innovative, often interdisciplinary, winter-term courses are offered on campus and abroad. Courses abroad have focused on the interdisciplinary study of art, literature, history and music in London, the Lake District and Scotland.

The College is a 30-minute drive from a thriving artistic culture in Idaho’s capital city, including the popular Boise Art Museum.

Career opportunities for C of I art students

Art majors and minors can pursue careers in a variety of fields. Those interested in fine art may go on to graduate programs that confer a Master of Fine Arts degree. Students focusing on art history or graphic design often find rewarding careers in museum work or the applied arts. The C of I’s PEAK curriculum makes it easy for those interested in a career in the applied arts to complement their studies with a business minor, while those seeking to teach art can complete their certification requirement through the College’s Department of Education.